For ocean lovers, the call to protect marine ecosystems doesn’t stop at the shoreline—it extends to every choice we make, including what we feed our four-legged family members. The pet food industry casts a wide net into our oceans, and not always with the planet’s health in mind. As conscious consumers, we’re increasingly seeking ways to align our dogs’ nutrition with our environmental values without compromising on quality, taste, or health benefits. Sustainably-sourced fish wet dog food represents a powerful intersection of premium canine nutrition and ocean stewardship, offering a protein-rich, palatable option that respects the delicate balance of marine life.
But navigating the waters of eco-friendly pet food requires more than just scanning for the word “fish” on a label. True sustainability involves understanding fishing practices, certification integrity, species selection, and the full lifecycle impact of the products we choose. This comprehensive guide dives deep into what makes fish wet food genuinely ocean-friendly, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that benefit both your dog’s vitality and the blue planet we all cherish.
Top 10 Sustainably-Sourced Fish Wet Dog Foods for Ocean Lovers
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Zignature Whitefish Formula Wet Dog Food 13oz, case of 12
Overview: Zignature’s Whitefish Formula delivers a streamlined, limited-ingredient wet food option centered on high-quality whitefish as the primary protein source. Each 13-ounce can provides exceptional hydration with 78% moisture content, making it an excellent choice for dogs who don’t drink enough water. The formula is specifically designed for rotational feeding protocols and dogs with food sensitivities, offering a clean nutritional profile without unnecessary fillers.
What Makes It Stand Out: The limited-ingredient approach is this product’s defining characteristic, making it ideal for elimination diets and dogs with allergies. Whitefish provides a novel protein source that’s naturally low in saturated fat while delivering substantial omega-3 fatty acids for skin, coat, and joint health. The high moisture content exceeds many competitors, supporting urinary tract health and proper kidney function. Its design for rotational feeding allows pet parents to vary proteins without digestive upset.
Value for Money: At $44.28 for a 12-can case (approximately $4.54 per pound), this positions Zignature in the mid-premium category. The price reflects its specialized limited-ingredient formulation rather than bulk economy. Compared to prescription hydrolyzed diets or other limited-ingredient brands, it offers solid value for dogs requiring dietary simplicity without veterinary-exclusive pricing.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the clean limited-ingredient profile, excellent hydration support, omega-3 richness, and rotational diet compatibility. Weaknesses involve limited transparency about ingredient sourcing and the absence of explicit grain-free certification in the provided details. Some dogs may find the texture less appealing than pate or stew varieties.
Bottom Line: Zignature Whitefish Formula is an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities or those following rotational diets. It balances quality nutrition with specialized formulation at a reasonable mid-tier price point, particularly valuable for pet parents managing dietary restrictions.
2. Wellness 95% Whitefish Natural Wet Grain Free Canned Dog Food, 13.2-Ounce Can (Pack of 12)
Overview: Wellness delivers a protein-packed pate featuring 95% whitefish content in a grain-free formulation. This Canadian-made wet food emphasizes meat-first nutrition aligned with ancestral dietary principles. The smooth pate texture makes it highly palatable and versatile, functioning as either a complete meal or a nutrient-dense topper for kibble. The formulation deliberately excludes common allergens and fillers, focusing on lean protein for optimal body composition.
What Makes It Stand Out: The exceptional 95% whitefish content distinguishes this product from standard wet foods that often include substantial plant ingredients. Its minimalist ingredient philosophy eliminates corn, wheat, soy, and poultry by-products entirely. The pate’s completely smooth texture ensures easy digestion and high acceptance, even among picky eaters. Canadian manufacturing with non-GMO ingredients adds quality assurance for discerning pet parents.
Value for Money: Priced at $48.96 per case ($4.95 per pound), this represents a premium investment justified by the ultra-high protein content and ingredient purity. While more expensive than conventional wet foods, the concentrated nutrition means smaller serving sizes may suffice when used as a topper, extending the value proposition compared to lower-protein alternatives.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the remarkable protein concentration, clean grain-free recipe, versatile usage options, and strict quality control. Weaknesses center on the premium price point and pate texture, which may not suit dogs preferring chunkier consistencies. The single-protein approach, while beneficial for sensitivities, offers less rotational flexibility within the product line.
Bottom Line: Wellness 95% Whitefish is ideal for pet parents prioritizing maximum protein content and ingredient simplicity. It excels as either a primary diet for dogs requiring novel proteins or as a high-value nutritional booster, justifying its premium price through exceptional formulation standards.
3. Open Farm Rustic Stews Wet Dog Food, Grain-Free, Complete & Balanced with Human-Grade Ingredients, Humanely-Raised Meat & Bone Broth, Homestead Turkey Recipe, 12.5oz Packs (Case of 12)
Overview: Open Farm’s Rustic Stew represents the premium tier of ethical pet nutrition, featuring human-grade, kettle-cooked turkey in a bone broth base. This grain-free and potato-free stew delivers complete, balanced nutrition while maintaining exceptional ingredient transparency. The formulation emphasizes humane animal welfare standards and non-GMO produce, catering to ethically-conscious consumers who refuse to compromise on sourcing integrity or environmental impact.
What Makes It Stand Out: Unparalleled traceability sets this product apart, with third-party certified ingredients and a comprehensive sourcing audit trail accessible to consumers. The human-grade preparation standards mirror human food production, while bone broth provides collagen, glucosamine, and additional nutrients. The stew format offers visible meat chunks and vegetables, creating textural appeal for picky eaters. Ethical sourcing extends beyond marketing to verifiable, audited certifications.
Value for Money: At $53.88 per case ($0.36 per ounce, translating to approximately $5.76 per pound), this commands the highest price point but delivers commensurate quality. The human-grade certification, ethical sourcing premiums, and bone broth inclusion justify the cost for values-driven pet parents. When used as a mixer, the stew stretches further, offsetting some premium pricing considerations.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include human-grade quality, complete ingredient traceability, ethical sourcing, bone broth nutrition, and stew texture variety. The primary weakness is the substantial price premium. Additionally, turkey protein may not suit dogs requiring fish-based diets, limiting its application for specific allergy management compared to whitefish alternatives.
Bottom Line: Open Farm Rustic Stew is the premium choice for ethically-minded pet parents demanding human-grade quality and complete supply chain transparency. While expensive, it delivers unmatched sourcing integrity and nutritional philosophy that aligns with values-based purchasing decisions.
4. Tender And True Pet Food, Dog Food Ocean Whitefish Potato Recipe, 13.2 Ounce (12 count)
Overview: Tender And True offers a budget-conscious, limited-ingredient diet featuring wild-caught ocean whitefish as the primary ingredient. This grain-free recipe provides essential nutrition without poultry proteins, making it suitable for dogs with multiple protein allergies or sensitivities. The formulation emphasizes simplicity and affordability while maintaining core quality standards through wild-caught sourcing and a clean, minimal ingredient panel.
What Makes It Stand Out: Wild-caught whitefish as the #1 ingredient provides a natural, sustainable protein source rarely found at this price point. The explicit exclusion of poultry addresses a common secondary allergen, while the limited-ingredient approach simplifies allergy management and elimination diets. The brand successfully balances cost-consciousness with quality protein sourcing, democratizing access to specialized nutrition for budget-restricted households.
Value for Money: At $34.99 for a 12-can case, this represents exceptional value among limited-ingredient, wild-caught protein diets. Properly calculated, this equals approximately $3.53 per pound—significantly undercutting competitors while delivering comparable protein quality. The affordability enables consistent feeding of specialized nutrition without financial strain, particularly valuable for multi-dog households requiring long-term dietary management.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include wild-caught protein sourcing, grain-free formulation, poultry-free recipe, and outstanding affordability. Weaknesses involve less transparent manufacturing details, absence of premium certifications like human-grade status, and basic formulation without added nutritional enhancements like bone broth or specific omega-3 enrichment. The brand lacks the marketing transparency of premium competitors.
Bottom Line: Tender And True is the smart economical choice for quality-conscious pet parents managing food sensitivities on a budget. It delivers essential limited-ingredient benefits and wild-caught protein integrity at an accessible price, making specialized nutrition financially sustainable for long-term feeding protocols.
Why Sustainable Fish Matters for Your Dog and the Ocean
The Environmental Impact of Commercial Fishing
Commercial fishing operations have historically operated with devastating efficiency, employing methods like bottom trawling that destroy seafloor habitats and contribute to bycatch—unintentionally capturing and killing non-target species including dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds. Overfishing has depleted nearly 90% of the world’s fish stocks, disrupting food webs and threatening the long-term health of marine ecosystems. When pet food companies source from these unsustainable fisheries, they become complicit in ocean degradation. Conversely, choosing products from responsibly managed fisheries helps fund conservation efforts, supports fishing communities that follow ethical practices, and ensures fish populations can regenerate for future generations.
What “Sustainably-Sourced” Actually Means
The term “sustainably-sourced” goes far beyond a marketing buzzword. It signifies that fish are harvested at rates allowing natural reproduction, using gear that minimizes habitat damage and bycatch. For aquaculture (fish farming), it means operations avoid antibiotics, prevent farmed fish escapes that could harm wild gene pools, manage waste responsibly, and source feed ingredients that don’t overtax other fisheries. True sustainability also considers carbon footprint from boat to bowl, processing methods, and fair labor practices throughout the supply chain. When applied to wet dog food, this means every ingredient—from the primary fish protein to the binding agents—should meet rigorous environmental and ethical standards.
Understanding Sustainability Certifications
Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Certification
The blue MSC label remains the gold standard for wild-caught fish sustainability. This third-party certification requires fisheries to pass 28 performance indicators addressing stock health, ecosystem impact, and effective management. Fisheries undergo mandatory reassessment every five years, with annual audits to ensure compliance. When you spot the MSC logo on dog food packaging, you’re looking at products containing fish that can be traced back to a certified sustainable source through a documented chain of custody. However, certification availability varies by species and region, so its absence doesn’t automatically indicate unsustainable practices—though its presence provides verifiable assurance.
Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Certification
For farm-raised fish, the ASC label offers parallel credibility. ASC certification addresses the unique challenges of aquaculture, including water quality management, disease prevention without harmful chemicals, escape prevention, and responsible feed sourcing. The standards prohibit conversion of critical habitats like mangroves into fish farms and require farms to demonstrate positive community impact. In wet dog food, ASC-certified salmon or tilapia indicates the fish were raised under conditions that protect both the immediate farm environment and surrounding ecosystems. This is particularly important as aquaculture expands to meet global protein demands.
Other Trustworthy Eco-Labels
Beyond MSC and ASC, several other certifications signal responsible sourcing. The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program provides color-coded recommendations (Best Choice, Good Alternative, Avoid) based on species and catch method. Some brands participate in Fishery Improvement Projects (FIPs), publicly committing to work toward MSC certification. The Ocean Wise label, common in North America, focuses on species-specific sustainability. While these labels vary in stringency, they demonstrate a brand’s willingness to undergo external scrutiny rather than relying on self-declared “eco-friendly” claims.
Nutritional Advantages of Fish-Based Wet Food
Omega Fatty Acids and Skin Health
Fish delivers unparalleled concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and promote a lustrous coat. Unlike plant-based omega-3 sources like flaxseed that require conversion in the body, fish provides these nutrients in their most bioavailable form. For dogs with dry, itchy skin or allergy-related dermatitis, fish-based wet food can function as both nutrition and therapeutic intervention. The high moisture content in wet formulations further enhances skin hydration from within, addressing issues that kibble alone cannot resolve.
High-Quality Protein for Muscle Maintenance
Fish offers a complete amino acid profile with exceptional digestibility, often exceeding that of common land-based proteins. The protein efficiency ratio of fish makes it ideal for maintaining lean muscle mass, particularly in senior dogs or those with compromised kidney function who need high-quality protein without excessive phosphorus loads. Wet food’s soft texture and concentrated protein content support muscle protein synthesis while being gentle on aging teeth and digestive systems. This makes sustainably-sourced fish an excellent primary protein for dogs across all life stages.
Novel Protein for Sensitive Stomachs
For dogs with food sensitivities to chicken, beef, or lamb, fish serves as a novel protein that reduces allergic reactions and gastrointestinal upset. The unique protein structure of fish is less likely to trigger immune responses in dogs who’ve developed intolerances to more common ingredients. Additionally, fish-based wet foods typically contain fewer carbohydrate fillers than dry alternatives, aligning with a dog’s evolutionary diet. When selecting a novel protein formula, ensure the fish is the sole animal protein source—some “fish recipes” still include chicken or beef by-products that can sabotage elimination diets.
Decoding the Ingredient List
Desirable Sustainable Fish Species
Certain species inherently offer better sustainability profiles due to their abundance, reproduction rates, and fishing methods. Sardines, anchovies, and herring (often called “blue whiting” in pet food) reproduce quickly and are typically caught with purse seines that minimize bycatch. Alaskan salmon from well-managed fisheries represents another excellent choice, with strict quotas and habitat protections. Mackerel from the Northeast Atlantic also scores well on sustainability indices. These smaller, oily fish also accumulate fewer heavy metals like mercury than apex predators such as tuna, making them safer for long-term feeding.
Ingredients That Undermine Sustainability
Watch for fish meal or fish oil of unspecified origin—“generic fish” ingredients often come from reduction fisheries that process bycatch and unsorted catch into feedstock. While this utilizes fish that might otherwise be wasted, it lacks traceability and can include endangered species. Avoid products containing palm oil as a binding agent, as palm plantation expansion drives deforestation and habitat loss. Similarly, soy fillers may contribute to deforestation unless certified sustainable. Some “fish” foods still use chicken fat or beef liver for palatability, which defeats the purpose of choosing fish for environmental reasons.
Fillers and Artificial Additives to Skip
Premium sustainably-sourced fish wet food should derive its nutritional completeness from whole food ingredients, not synthetic shortcuts. Carrageenan, a common thickener derived from seaweed, remains controversial due to potential inflammatory effects in the gut. Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin have no place in eco-conscious formulations. Instead, look for natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) and whole food binders like sweet potato or pumpkin that add nutritional value while maintaining texture.
Label Literacy for Conscious Consumers
Decoding “Wild-Caught” vs. “Farm-Raised”
“Wild-caught” conjures images of pristine waters and natural diets, but the method matters more than the environment. Longline-caught wild fish can have significant bycatch issues, while well-managed farm-raised fish may have lower environmental impact. The key is specificity—labels should state the catch method (pole-and-line, troll-caught) or farming standard (ASC-certified). Be wary of vague “ocean-caught” claims without certification, as this often means the fish came from international waters with minimal regulation. Transparency about origin country provides additional clues; for example, Norwegian farmed salmon adheres to stricter standards than many Asian aquaculture operations.
What “Complete and Balanced” Really Means
The AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement indicating “complete and balanced” for a specific life stage is non-negotiable for daily feeding. This ensures the formulation meets minimum nutrient requirements through feeding trials or nutrient profiles. However, this designation doesn’t address ingredient quality or sustainability. A food can be nutritionally complete yet sourced from destructive fisheries. Your ideal product carries both AAFCO certification and credible sustainability credentials, ensuring your dog receives optimal nutrition without ecological compromise.
Moisture Content and Guaranteed Analysis
Wet dog food typically contains 75-85% moisture, which benefits hydration but concentrates nutrients on a dry matter basis. To compare protein content between wet and dry foods, calculate dry matter protein: subtract moisture percentage from 100, then divide the listed protein percentage by that number. For example, a wet food with 80% moisture and 10% protein actually contains 50% protein on a dry matter basis. This matters because sustainably-sourced fish is expensive—you want to ensure you’re paying for nutrient density, not just water and fillers.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Matters
Recyclable and BPA-Free Cans
Traditional aluminum cans are infinitely recyclable and already represent a relatively sustainable packaging choice, but not all cans are created equal. BPA (Bisphenol A) and similar epoxy linings can leach into fatty fish content, posing endocrine disruption risks. Look for brands explicitly stating “BPA-free linings” or using newer polymer coatings. Some companies now offer cans made from recycled aluminum, further reducing environmental impact. Tetra Pak cartons, while lightweight, involve multi-layer materials that are difficult to recycle in many municipalities—check local facilities before choosing these over infinitely recyclable metal.
Carbon Footprint of Wet Food Packaging
Transportation weight significantly affects carbon footprint, and wet food’s high moisture content makes it heavier than dry kibble. Some brands offset this by manufacturing regionally or using lightweight packaging innovations. Pouches, while convenient, often combine plastic and aluminum layers that render them non-recyclable. The most eco-conscious choice remains steel or aluminum cans with high recycled content and clear recycling instructions. Consider buying in larger can sizes to reduce packaging per serving, and support brands with take-back programs for hard-to-recycle materials.
Navigating Price and Value
Why Premium Pricing Exists
Sustainably-sourced fish wet food commands higher prices for legitimate reasons: certified fisheries receive fair wages, use more selective (and thus less efficient) fishing gear, and maintain lower catch volumes to prevent overfishing. The documentation required for chain-of-custody certification adds administrative costs. Small-batch processing to maintain quality, using whole fish rather than byproduct meal, and eschewing cheap fillers all contribute to the final price. While a $4 can may seem steep compared to $1 alternatives, you’re investing in ecosystem preservation and often superior nutrition that can reduce veterinary costs long-term.
Spotting Greenwashing Tactics
Unscrupulous brands exploit eco-conscious consumers with vague claims like “ocean-inspired,” “naturally sourced,” or featuring marine imagery without certification. True sustainability requires specificity—if a brand won’t name its fish species, origin, or certification body, skepticism is warranted. Be wary of “sustainably-fished” without third-party verification; this is a self-awarded claim with no accountability. Some companies highlight a single sustainable ingredient while obscuring that 90% of the formula contains conventionally-sourced proteins. Scrutinize the entire ingredient list and certification scope, not just the marketing headlines.
Dietary Transition Strategies
Gradual Introduction Strategies
Switching to a fish-based wet food requires a slow transition over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset. Start with 25% new food mixed with 75% current food for three days, then move to 50/50 for three days, then 75/25 before full conversion. Because fish has a distinct fatty acid profile, some dogs may experience looser stools initially—this usually resolves as gut flora adapt. Adding a spoonful of plain pumpkin (not pie filling) can ease the transition. For dogs new to wet food, consider the temperature—slightly warming the fish food releases aromas that enhance palatability and acceptance.
Monitoring for Fish Allergies
While fish is a novel protein for many dogs, allergies can still develop. Watch for signs including excessive scratching, ear infections, paw licking, or gastrointestinal disturbances within 2-4 weeks of full transition. True fish allergies involve immune reactions to specific fish proteins, while intolerances may stem from histamine buildup in improperly stored fish. If you suspect an issue, try a different species—some dogs allergic to salmon tolerate whitefish, as the proteins differ. Hydrolyzed fish protein diets exist for severely allergic dogs, though these rarely carry sustainability certifications due to processing complexities.
Homemade Fish Diets: Pros and Cons
Safety Concerns with DIY Fish Diets
Preparing homemade fish meals offers ultimate control over sourcing, but nutritional completeness poses significant challenges. Fish alone cannot provide all essential nutrients dogs require—deficiencies in calcium, vitamin E, and specific B vitamins develop quickly without careful supplementation. The risk of thiamine deficiency is particularly high with raw fish containing thiaminase enzymes. Additionally, sourcing truly sustainable fish for individual purchase is difficult; commercial pet food brands have supply chain access that consumers don’t. Parasite concerns in raw fish necessitate freezing at -4°F for at least 7 days, adding another safety layer.
When Commercial Options Make More Sense
For most pet parents, certified commercial wet foods offer the best combination of nutrition, safety, and verified sustainability. These products undergo feeding trials, employ veterinary nutritionists, and maintain relationships with certified fisheries that ensure consistent, responsible sourcing. The economies of scale make sustainable fish more affordable than buying MSC-certified salmon at human-grade prices. If you still wish to incorporate fresh fish, use it as a topper to a complete commercial base rather than the entire meal, ensuring nutritional gaps don’t develop while still prioritizing certified sustainable sources.
Looking Ahead: Innovations in Sustainable Pet Nutrition
Innovation in Aquaculture
Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) represent the future of sustainable fish production, using closed-loop water systems that eliminate ocean pollution and disease transfer to wild populations. These land-based farms can be powered by renewable energy and located near consumer markets, slashing transportation emissions. Some companies are experimenting with insect-based fish feed, reducing reliance on wild-caught forage fish like anchovies that are currently processed into fish meal. Algae-derived omega-3 supplements offer a fish-free alternative that still delivers EPA and DHA, though these remain more common in human supplements than pet food.
Alternative Ocean Proteins
Beyond traditional fish, sustainable pet food innovators are exploring underutilized species like invasive Asian carp, which threaten native ecosystems and can be harvested abundantly without environmental harm. Marine microalgae and single-cell proteins grown in bioreactors provide complete amino acid profiles with virtually zero ecological footprint. While these ingredients currently appear more in dry kibble and treats, wet food formulations are beginning to incorporate them. As consumer demand grows, expect to see “ocean-positive” proteins that actively improve marine ecosystems while nourishing your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I verify a brand’s sustainability claims are legitimate?
Look for third-party certifications like MSC, ASC, or Seafood Watch approval with specific lot numbers you can trace. Reputable brands publish sustainability reports detailing their sourcing partners and fishing methods. Contact the company directly—transparent brands will provide specific fishery information, not vague assurances. Cross-reference claims with independent databases like the NOAA FishWatch program.
2. Is wild-caught fish always more sustainable than farm-raised?
Not necessarily. Well-managed wild fisheries can be highly sustainable, but some wild-caught methods cause significant bycatch. ASC-certified farmed fish often has lower environmental impact than poorly managed wild fisheries. The key is the specific fishery or farm’s practices, not the broad category. Look for certifications that address the particular sourcing model.
3. Can puppies eat sustainably-sourced fish wet food?
Yes, provided the formula is AAFCO-certified for “growth and reproduction” or “all life stages.” Fish offers excellent protein and DHA for brain development. Ensure the puppy is transitioning from mother’s milk appropriately, and introduce fish-based food gradually. Puppies have higher caloric needs, so feed according to weight and age guidelines on the label.
4. Why is sustainably-sourced fish dog food more expensive?
Certified sustainable fisheries operate with lower catch limits, use more selective gear, and pay fair wages—all increasing costs. Documentation for chain-of-custody tracking adds administrative overhead. These products also typically use whole fish rather than cheap byproducts and avoid inexpensive fillers. You’re paying for environmental protection and often superior ingredient quality.
5. How do I know if my dog is allergic to fish versus just intolerant?
True allergies trigger immune responses, showing as skin issues (itching, hives, ear infections) and sometimes gastrointestinal signs. Intolerances typically cause only digestive upset. Diagnosis requires an elimination diet using a novel protein for 8-12 weeks, followed by a controlled rechallenge with fish. Your veterinarian can guide this process and may recommend blood or skin testing for definitive diagnosis.
6. Are there heavy metal concerns with feeding fish dog food daily?
Sustainable smaller fish species (sardines, anchovies, herring) accumulate minimal mercury compared to large predatory fish like tuna or swordfish. Reputable brands test for heavy metals and publish results. The benefits of omega-3s typically outweigh trace metal risks in properly sourced products. Rotate proteins occasionally and choose brands transparent about testing protocols for added safety.
7. What’s the difference between fish meal and whole fish in ingredient lists?
Fish meal is rendered, processed fish that’s concentrated but may include heads, bones, and viscera from unspecified sources. Whole fish listed as “salmon” or “whitefish” indicates muscle meat with better digestibility and nutrient retention. While fish meal isn’t inherently bad, whole fish from certified sources offers superior quality control and transparency about what your dog is actually eating.
8. How should I store opened cans of fish wet food?
Refrigerate opened cans promptly and use within 3-5 days. Transfer to a glass container if concerned about BPA lining leaching over time. Cover tightly to prevent odor absorption and nutrient degradation. Never leave wet food at room temperature for more than two hours. For single-dog households, consider smaller can sizes to reduce waste, even if the per-ounce cost is slightly higher.
9. Can fish-based wet food completely replace dry kibble?
Absolutely, provided it’s AAFCO-complete for your dog’s life stage. Many dogs thrive on exclusively wet food diets, benefiting from increased hydration and often lower carbohydrate content. The key is feeding the correct amount based on your dog’s weight and activity level. Wet food contains fewer calories per ounce than kibble due to moisture, so portion sizes will be larger to meet caloric needs.
10. What role does bycatch play in pet food sustainability?
Bycatch from destructive fishing methods often ends up in generic “fish meal” and “animal digest” ingredients, making it nearly impossible to trace species or sustainability. This practice devastates marine populations and habitats. Choosing certified sustainable products with specified fish species ensures your purchase doesn’t fund bycatch-heavy operations. True sustainability means supporting selective fishing that targets only intended species.